A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Monaco for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Mykonos or Monaco?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mykonos and Monaco. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Monaco

Monaco is a glitzy, glamorous, and captivating coastal resort area. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Mykonos and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Monaco?

Both Monaco and Mykonos have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Mykonos is better known for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Monaco is more popular for its big city activities. Mykonos is well known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Monaco is well known for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities.

How is Mykonos different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Monaco and Mykonos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mykonos or Monaco?

Mykonos
Monaco

Mykonos is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

Mykonos offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Mykonos or Monaco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Monaco

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Mykonos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

Monaco has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by both French and Italian cuisines. You'll find many dishes that take advantage of the coastal location, with seafood being very common. The national dish is Barbagiuan, which is a deep-fried pastry that is filled with ricotta cheese, Swiss chard, and other vegetables.

Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Monaco

Both Mykonos and Monaco are first-rate when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

Monaco is a world class party destination. It's where sophistication meets glam, with many luxury nightclubs, cocktail bars, casinos, and even opera houses that you can explore. The city attracts celebrities, wealthy business people, and jetsetters who are looking to socialize, see, and be seen.

Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Monaco

There are first-rate resorts to choose from in both Mykonos and Monaco.

Vacationers flock to Mykonos for its luxury resorts. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Monaco is a great choice. As the playground for the rich and famous, this city has its share of luxury resorts. Famous hotels include the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, and the Fairmont Monte Carlo.


Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Monaco

Mykonos is well known for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Monaco has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are both beaches that offer walk-in snorkeling spots as well as boat tours that you can book that will take you to some of the best snorkeling and dive sights around Monaco.

Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Monaco

Mykonos is well known for the beache. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Mykonos is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Monaco has a beach worth visiting. Located along the French Riviera, the beaches are a mix of pebbles and sand. The only public beach is Plage du Larvotto in Monte Carlo and there are a number of activities available including jet skis and wind-surfing. This is also a very family-friendly beach that kids of all ages can enjoy.

Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Monaco

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its old town. However, Monaco does not have a historic old town.

Mykonos offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Monaco does not have a historic old town.


Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Monaco

Mykonos is not so good for its hiking experiences. However, Monaco is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Monaco is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Monaco?

Mykonos
Monaco

Both Mykonos and Monaco are first-rate shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Many people travel to Monaco specifically to go shopping. A visit would not be complete without experiencing the city's shopping. There are couture, luxury brands as well as local boutiques that are frequented by the wealthy and famous. Popular shopping areas include Le Metropole Shopping Center, Fontvieille Shopping Centre, and La Condamine Market.

Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for Families?

Mykonos
Monaco

Most people don't think of either Mykonos or Monaco as a family destination.

Mykonos is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Monaco is not always a place people visit with their families. The city has a few family-friendly activities like an Oceanography Museum, a Zoological Park, and a harbor where kids can explore. You can also check out the Changing of the Guards in the Old Town. The public beach in town, Plage du Larvotto, is very family-friendly as well.


Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Monaco

Mykonos and Monaco both first-rate destinations for a couple.

Mykonos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Monaco makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Filled with luxury, a couple can enjoy perusing the yachts in the harbor, dining on fine cuisine at an award winning restaurant, or staying at one of the many fancy hotels in town. You can also explore the area by air, by taking a truly spectacular helicopter tour.

Is Mykonos or Monaco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mykonos
Monaco

Both Mykonos and Monaco offer notable public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Monaco has some public transit options. There is a bus system.

Is Mykonos or Monaco a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Monaco

Mykonos and Monaco both are first-rate when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Mykonos on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Monaco. It's small and compact size means that it is easy to explore the entire area on foot in a short amount of time.


For even more information, also check out Is Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Monaco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Monaco?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mykonos and Monaco. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mykonos than in Monaco. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Monaco.

Families should spend more time in Mykonos than Monaco. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Mykonos, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Monaco. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mykonos that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mykonos than Monaco if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Mykonos.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Monaco? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Monaco 1-3

One day in Mykonos or Monaco?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Because Monaco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal resort area offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Mykonos or Monaco?

Mykonos is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Because Monaco is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Monaco has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Monaco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Monaco is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Mykonos or Monaco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the opulent destination of Mykonos. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monaco. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Monaco. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Monaco or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €149, while the average daily cost in Monaco is €189. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mykonos and Monaco in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Monaco 119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Monaco 238
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Monaco

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Monaco? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mykonos


Hotels in Monaco


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mykonos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Monaco 17
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • 24 Hour Private Transfer Service All Around Mykonos Island: $27
  • 24 Hours Mykonos Private Transfer: $87
  • Boat Tour / Transfer in Mykonos: $745
  • Delos Island: Roundtrip Boat Transfer from Mykonos Island: $31
  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,554
  • Mykonos Airport Transfer: $76
  • Mykonos Airport or Port from/to Point to Point Private Transfers: $213
  • Mykonos Airport: Private Mykonos, Elia, or Kalafati Transfer: $81
  • Mykonos Port or Airport Private Transfer : $76
  • Mykonos Private Limo Transfer: $98
  • Mykonos Private Long Distance Transfer Up To 12 Persons: $204
  • Mykonos Private Short Distance Transfer Up To 12 Persons: $189

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Monaco

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Monaco:

  • Port Hercule (Monte Carlo Monaco Port): Transfer to Monaco: $227

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Monaco?

Prices for flights to both Monaco and Mykonos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mykonos 48
    Monaco 53
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mykonos.

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $69
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner with Drinks in Mykonos: $71
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $100
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $108
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $109
  • 5 Hours Sunset Tour to Delos and Rhenia Island with Dinner : $142
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $160
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $164
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $197
  • Private Authentic Greek Brunch Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Local: $254
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $282
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $607

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Monaco 23

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Mykonos are as follows:

  • Old Town Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Paddle Boat Experience: $16
  • Cellar Tour & Beer Tasting at Mykonos Brewing Company : $30
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $42
  • Mykonos Old Town Walking Tour: $43
  • Half-Day City Walking Tour and Island Bus Tour: $43
  • Super Paradise Beach: Wakeboarding Experience: $48
  • From Ano Mera Farm Tour: $48
  • Half-Day Highlights of Mykonos Tour: $49
  • Farm, Ano Mera Village, and Beaches Guided Tour: $52
  • City & Island Tour: $52
  • Mykonos Hiking Adventure: $53

Typical Entertainment Prices in Monaco

Here are a few typical costs in Monaco for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Grand Prix for Two
    101

Tours and Activities in Monaco

Here are a few actual costs in Monaco for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.19
  • Monaco Old Town Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.32
  • Monaco City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.38
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Monte Carlo & Audioguide: $14
  • City Neighborhoods Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Oceanographic Museum of Monaco Ticket: $20
  • Formula One Circuit Guided Walking Tour: $53
  • 3-Hour Walking Tour with a local licensed guide: $59
  • Excursion to Eze and Half Day Shared Tour 5h: $69
  • From Nice: Eze, Monaco and Monte Carlo Half Day Tour: $69
  • Eze and Full Day Shared Tour: $101

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Monaco 26

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

Also in Mykonos, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $72
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $74
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $80
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $82
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $128
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $128
  • Luxurious All-in-One Mykonos Party Tour with Wine Tasting: $163

Sample the Local Flavors in Monaco

Also in Monaco, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Nice: Wine Tasting Class in City Center: $72


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Monaco, we can see that Monaco is more expensive. And not only is Mykonos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mykonos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mykonos and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Monaco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monaco than you might in Mykonos.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mykonos Expensive? and Is Monaco Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Monaco?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 580 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Monaco, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.